Analysis: When Life Throws A Curveball

Marie Lesperance
When Life Throws a Curveball
Irish playwright, George Bernard, once said that “Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” Can someone truly “create themselves” when his or her life’s quality and longevity are in jeopardy? It is very sad to think about children who have been diagnosed with cancer and that if they lose their battle, may never get to live a full, healthy life like their peers. According to the Childhood Cancer Foundation, a staggering 175,000 children are diagnosed with cancer worldwide each year; for 25% of them, the disease will be fatal. An estimated 13,500 children and adolescents younger than 20 years of age are diagnosed annually with some form of cancer in the United States alone. Those who do make it through their adolescent years have a greater risk of developing chronic health problems or secondary cancers in their later years. It goes without saying that the disease creates much hardship, pain and suffering. That being so, support for families and patients going through this hardship is very critical. There are many organizations that strive to be that backbone for these families. The Make a Wish Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House for example believe that, if a child is exposed to positive experiences and atmospheres, it will have an overall positive effect on his or her health and wellbeing. These support groups provide great opportunities for struggling families, but ultimately that can only go so far. Cancer not only compromises the patient’s physical health, but also affects the social, mental, economic, and emotional well-being of their entire family.

It is difficult to detect cancer in children. The symptoms can often be caused by an illness that is...

... middle of paper ...

...nd even strangers. There are organizations established to provide financial and emotional support. Foundations such as the Ronald McDonald house help ease the economic strain on families who must travel out of town to be near their children during treatment at out of state cancer centers. Make A Wish foundation supports the emotional well being of the patient and their families; providing an unforgettable memory that promotes strength and optimism. What is the best way to react when you discover a family or friend has learned of their child’s cancer diagnosis? Remind them that they are not alone; people are there to provide love and support. Don’t ask what to do - just do it! Shovel their walk, mow their lawn, water their flowers, take their other kids for the day… and just like Officer Tommy Austin, experience something spectacular, and it won’t end there.